Imperial Star is Cynara scolymus, an artichoke bred to make well-developed buds in the first season in northern climates. Fresh buds carry a richer flavor than store artichokes.
Sow 1/2 inch deep indoors 8-12 weeks before the last frost. Keep soil at 70-80ºF and sprouts come in 10-18 days. In zone 6 and below, set seedlings out 10 days at 45-50ºF before transplanting 24-36 inches apart after frost. Sow in fall in zone 7 and above.
